01
Best close-to-town climb
St. Joseph's Hill Open Space Preserve
Above Downtown Los Gatos • Oak-Studded Hillside Preserve With Bay Views • Best For Quick Workouts
A short but steady climb rewards you with wide-open views over Los Gatos, Lexington Reservoir, and the South Bay.
From the Lexington Reservoir side, the main fire road wastes no time gaining elevation, making this a favorite training hill for locals. Wildflowers dot the slopes in spring, and the upper benches are perfect for a quick breather with a panorama. Go early or near sunset for cooler temps and softer light on the valley below.
02
Best easy-access path
Los Gatos Creek Trail
Downtown To Vasona Lake • Creekside Multi-Use Path • Best For Easy Strolls And Runs
A flat, family-friendly trail that follows the creek from downtown Los Gatos past parks, picnic areas, and into neighboring towns.
Start near downtown and head north for a relaxed walk or run with plenty of shade and frequent benches. The stretch through Vasona Lake and Oak Meadow parks adds open lawns, playgrounds, and picnic spots, making it an easy choice with kids or mixed-ability groups. Weekday mornings are quieter if you want a more peaceful outing.
03
Best classic mountain escape
Castle Rock State Park
Skyline Boulevard Above Saratoga • Rugged Sandstone And Redwood State Park • Best For Classic Bay Area Scenery
A network of rocky, forested trails with sweeping ocean-and-valley vistas just a winding drive above Los Gatos.
Castle Rock’s loop options, like the Saratoga Gap and Ridge routes, mix mossy redwood ravines with airy sandstone outcrops and big west-facing views. The park feels wild yet compact enough for half-day hikes, with plenty of side trails to explore. Fog can roll in fast, so pack layers and expect cooler temps than in town.
04
Best workout with big views
Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve (Kennedy & Priest Rock Trails)
South Of Town In The Santa Cruz Mountains • Steep Fire Roads And Ridge Trail Network • Best For Strong Hikers
Long, sustained climbs from the Lexington Reservoir area lead to high ridges with expansive views over the South Bay and deep into the mountains.
The Kennedy and Priest Rock climbs are unapologetically steep, drawing hikers and trail runners who want serious elevation gain close to town. Once you reach the ridge, rolling terrain and wide vistas make the effort worthwhile, especially on clear winter and spring days. Bring plenty of water and sun protection—shade is limited on the upper sections.
05
Best shady forest hike
Sanborn County Park
Saratoga Foothills • Shady Redwood Canyon Park • Best For Summer Shade
Cool, forested trails wind through redwoods and madrone on the slopes above Saratoga, a short drive from Los Gatos.
Sanborn’s trails offer a quieter, more enclosed forest feel than the open ridges closer to town, making it a go-to on hot days. The San Andreas and surrounding routes roll along steep hillsides, with frequent switchbacks and short, punchy climbs. Expect narrow, rooty singletrack in places and a deep-woods atmosphere that feels far removed from Highway 17.